Designation: D2863 – 12

Standard Test Method for

Measuring the Minimum Oxygen Concentration to Support
Candle-Like Combustion of Plastics (Oxygen Index)1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2863; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

1. Scope* responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-

1.1 This fire-test-response standard describes a procedure priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
for measuring the minimum concentration of oxygen, ex- bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific hazards
pressed as percent volume, that will just support flaming statement are given in Section 10.
combustion in a flowing mixture of oxygen and nitrogen. 1.10 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safe-
1.2 This test method provides three testing procedures. guards for personnel and property shall be employed in
Procedure A involves top surface ignition, Procedure B in- conducting these tests.
volves propagating ignition, and Procedure C is a short NOTE 2—This test method and ISO 4589-2 are technically equivalent
procedure involving the comparison with a specified minimum when using the gas measurement and control device described in 6.3.1,
value of the oxygen index. with direct oxygen concentration measurement.
1.3 Test specimens used for this test method are prepared
2. Referenced Documents
into one of six types of specimens (see Table 1).
1.4 This test method provides for testing materials that are 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
structurally self-supporting in the form of vertical bars or sheet D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
up to 10.5-mm thick. Such materials are solid, laminated or D1071 Test Methods for Volumetric Measurement of Gas-
cellular materials characterized by an apparent density greater eous Fuel Samples
than 15 kg/m3. D1622 Test Method for Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular
1.5 This test method also provides for testing flexible sheet Plastics
or film materials, while supported vertically. D4802 Specification for Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Acrylic
1.6 This test method is also suitable, in some cases, for Plastic Sheet
cellular materials having an apparent density of less than 15 E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
kg/m3. E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
NOTE 1—Although this test method has been found applicable for
2.2 ISO Standards:3
testing some other materials, the precision of the test method has not been
determined for these materials, or for specimen geometries and test ISO 4589-2 Plastics—Determination of Flammability by
conditions outside those recommended herein. Oxygen Index—Part 2, Ambient Temperatures
ISO 7823-1 Poly(Methylmethacrylate) Sheets—Types, Di-
1.7 This test method measures and describes the response of
mensions and Characteristics—Part 1—Cast Sheets
materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under
ISO 13943 Fire Safety—Vocabulary
controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all
factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the 3. Terminology
materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions. 3.1 Definitions
1.8 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as 3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method refer
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this to the terminology contained in Terminology E176 and
standard. ISO 13943. In case of conflict, the definitions given in Termi-
1.9 This standard does not purport to address all of the nology E176 shall prevail.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D20.30 on Thermal Properties. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved April 1, 2012. Published May 2012. Originally the ASTM website.
3
approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D2863 - 10. DOI: Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
10.1520/D2863-12. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

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 D2863 – 12
TABLE 1 Test Specimen Dimensions 3.3.5 X—the period or extent of burning exceeds the rel-
Test Dimensions evant limit specified in Table 2.
Specimen Length, Width, Thickness, Material Form 3.3.6 NL—series of “X” or “O” results.
TypeA mm mm mm 3.3.7 NT—series of “X” or “O” results plus five (NT
I 80 to 150 10 6 0.5 4 6 0.25 for molding materials = NL + 5).
II 80 to 150 10 6 0.5 10 6 0.5 for cellular materials 3.3.8 s*—standard deviation of the oxygen concentration.
IIIB 80 to 150 10 6 0.5 # 10.5 for sheet materials
IVC 70 to 150 6.5 6 0.5 3 6 0.25 alternative size for 3.3.9 d—interval between oxygen concentration levels in
self-supporting molding percent volume.
or sheet materials 3.3.10 k—a factor to be determined from Table 3.
VB 140 6 5 52 6 0.5 #10.5 for flexible film or sheet
VIBD 140 to 200 20 0.02 to for thin film; limited to film 3.3.11 n—number of measurements of oxygen concentra-
0.10 that can be rolled by the tion.
wire specified in 6.7
A
Test specimens of Types I, II, III, and IV are suitable for materials that are 4. Summary of Test Method
self-supporting at these dimensions. Test specimens of Form V and VI are suitable
for materials that require support during testing. Test specimens of Form VI are 4.1 A small test specimen is supported vertically in a
suitable for film materials that can be rolled into a self-supporting specimen by the mixture of oxygen and nitrogen flowing upwards through a
procedure in 7.4.
B
Compare results obtained using Type III, V, and VI test specimens only to
transparent chimney. The upper end of the specimen is ignited
those obtained using specimens of the same form and thickness. It is assumed and the subsequent burning behavior of the specimen is
that the amount of variation in thickness for such materials will be controlled by observed to compare the period for which burning continues,
other standards.
C
The Type IV (ASTM) specimen will eventually be discontinued in favor of the
or the length of specimen burnt, with specified limits for each
Type 1 (ISO) specimen. burning. By testing a series of specimens in different oxygen
D
The test specimen of Type VI is suitable for thin film that is self-supporting concentrations, the minimum oxygen concentration is deter-
when it is rolled (see 7.4). Dimensions in the table are of the specimen size from
which the rolled form is made. If the film is very thin, it is possible that proper mined.
results will only be obtained if two or more layers are combined in the preparation 4.2 Three procedures are included in this test method. In
of the roll to obtain proper results. Procedure A, a complete assessment of the oxygen index is
conducted using top surface ignition. In Procedure B, a
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: complete assessment of the oxygen index is conducted using
3.2.1 ignition—the initiation of combustion. propagating ignition. Procedure C provides a comparison with
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3.2.2 oxygen index (OI)—the minimum concentration of a specified minimum value of oxygen index and can be
oxygen determined by the method in 12.1, expressed as volume conducted using top surface ignition or propagating ignition.
percent, in a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen that will just
5. Significance and Use
support flaming combustion of a material initially at 23 6 2°C
under the conditions of this test method. 5.1 This test method provides for the measuring of the
3.3 Symbols Specific To This Test Method:: minimum concentration of oxygen in a flowing mixture of
3.3.1 Co—oxygen concentration in percent volume. oxygen and nitrogen that will just support flaming combustion
3.3.2 CF—final value of oxygen concentration in percent of plastics. Correlation with burning characteristics under
volume. actual use conditions is not implied.
3.3.3 Ci—each of the oxygen concentration percentages 5.2 In this test method, the specimens are subjected to one
used during measurement of the last six responses in the NT or more specific sets of laboratory test conditions. If different
series. test conditions are substituted or the end-use conditions are
3.3.4 O—neither the period or extent of burning exceeds the changed, it is not always possible by or from this test to predict
relevant limit specified in Table 2. changes in the fire-test-response characteristics measured.
Therefore, the results are valid only for the fire-test-exposure
conditions described in this test method.
TABLE 2 Criteria for Oxygen Index MeasurementsA
Alternative Criteria 6. Apparatus
Period of
Test Specimen
Ignition Procedure Burning 6.1 Test Chimney. The test chimney consists of a heat-
Type (See Table 1) Extent of BurningB
After resistant glass tube of 75 to 100-mm inside diameter and 450
Ignition(s) to 500-mm height. The opening at the top of the chimney shall
I, II, III, IV, and VI A 180 50 mm below the top
(top surface ignition) of the specimen be restricted to provide an outlet of 40 6 2-mm diameter, either
I, II, III, IV, and VI B 180 50 mm below the by providing an overhead cap or by designing the glass
(propagating ignition) upper reference
mark
chimney appropriately. The bottom of the chimney, or the base
V propagating ignition 180 80 mm below the to which the tube is attached, shall contain noncombustible
upper reference material to evenly mix and distribute the gas mixture entering
mark (on the frame)
at this base. Glass beads 3 to 5 mm in diameter in a bed 80 to
A
These criteria do not necessarily produce equivalent oxygen index results for 100-mm deep have been found suitable. The chimney shall be
specimens of differing shape or tested using different ignition conditions or
procedures. mounted securely on the base to prevent air leaks. One
B
The extent of burning is exceeded when any part of the visibly burning portion example of a design is shown in Fig. 1.
of a specimen, including burning drips descending the vertical faces, passes the
level indicated in the column. NOTE 3—It is helpful to place a wire screen above the noncombustible

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 D2863 – 12
TABLE 3 Determination of k
1 2 3 4 5 6

Responses for the Last Five Values of k for which the first NL determinations are: Responses for the Last Five
Measurements (a) O OO OOO OOOO MeasurementsA

XOOOO −0.55 −0.55 −0.55 −0.55 OXXXX

XOOOX −1.25 −1.25 −1.25 −1.25 OXXXO
XOOXO 0.37 0.38 0.38 0.38 OXXOX

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XOOXX −0.17 −0.14 −0.14 −0.14 OXXOO
XOXOO 0.02 0.04 0.04 0.04 OXOXX
XOXOX −0.50 −0.46 −0.45 −0.45 OXOXO
XOXXO 1.17 1.24 1.25 1.25 OXOOX
XOXXX 0.61 0.73 0.76 0.76 OXOOO
XXOOO −0.30 −0.27 −0.26 −0.26 OOXXX
XXOOX −0.83 −0.76 −0.75 −0.75 OOXXO
XXOXO 0.83 0.94 0.95 0.95 OOXOX
XXOXX 0.30 0.46 0.50 0.50 OOXOO
XXXOO 0.50 0.65 0.68 0.68 OOOXX
XXXOX −0.04 0.19 0.24 0.25 OOOXO
XXXXO 1.60 1.92 2.00 2.01 OOOOX
XXXXX 0.89 1.33 1.47 1.50 OOOOO
A
Values of k for which the first NL determinations are (b) X, XX, XXX, and XXXX are as given in Table 3 opposite he appropriate response in Column 6, but with the
sign of k reversed, that is: OI = CF − kd (see 12.1).

material to catch falling fragments and to aid in keeping the base of the orifices, gas pressure regulators, and pressure gauges on the
column clean. individual gas supply lines and needle valves and calibrated
6.2 Specimen Holders flowmeters on the individual gas supply lines.
6.2.1 Specimen Holder for Self-Supporting Specimens— 6.3.3 Any system used requires calibration after assembly to
Any small holding device that will support the specimen at its ensure that the compounded errors of the component parts do
base and hold it vertically in the center of the chimney is an not exceed the requirements of 6.3.
acceptable specimen holder. A typical arrangement (see Fig. 1) 6.3.4 Means shall be provided for checking or ensuring that
consists of a laboratory thermometer clamp inserted into the the temperature of the gas mixture entering the chimney is 23
end of a glass tube held in place by glass beads or otherwise 6 2°C. If this involves an internal probe, its position and
firmly supported. profile shall be designed to minimize induction of turbulence
6.2.2 Specimen Holder for Specimens of Flexible Sheet or within the chimney.
Film Materials that Require Support—A specimen holder for 6.4 Flame Igniter. The flame igniter shall comprise a tube,
flexible film or sheet materials that require support shall be able with an inside diameter of 2 6 1 mm, that can be inserted into
to support the specimen by both vertical edges in a frame the chimney to apply the test flame.
equivalent to that illustrated by Fig. 2, with reference marks at 6.4.1 The flame fuel shall be methane or natural gas of at
20 and 100 mm below the top of the frame. The profile of the least 97 % purity, without premixed air. The fuel supply shall
holder and its support shall be smooth to minimize induction of be adjusted so that the flame projects 16 6 4 mm vertically
turbulence in the rising flow of gas. downwards from the outlet when the tube is vertical within the
6.2.3 Thin Film Rolling Tool—In order to prepare self- chimney and the flame is burning within the chimney atmo-
supporting specimens from thin films (see 7.4), use a 2 6 sphere.
0.1-mm stainless steel rod with a 0.3 6 0.05-mm slit at one 6.5 Timing Device. A timing device shall be provided, which
end, equivalent to that illustrated in Fig. 3. The actual specimen is capable of measuring periods up to 5 min with an accuracy
holder shall be the one in 6.2.1. of 60.5 s.
6.3 Gas Measurement and Control Devices. Gas measure- 6.6 Fume Extraction System. A fume extraction system shall
ment and control devices shall be suitable for measuring the be provided with sufficient ventilation or exhaust to remove
concentration of oxygen in the gas mixture entering the fumes or soot expelled from the chimney without disrupting
chimney with an accuracy of 60.5 %, by volume, of the gas the gas-flow rate or temperatures in the chimney.
mixture and for adjusting the concentration of oxygen in the
mixture with a precision of 60.1 %, by volume, of the gas NOTE 4—If soot-generating materials are being tested, it is likely that
the glass chimney, gas inlets, and inlet screen will require cleaning
mixture, when the gas velocity through the chimney is 40 6 2
between tests to maintain good visibility and to function properly.
mm/s at 23 6 2°C.
6.3.1 A typical system for gas measurement and control 6.7 Gas Supplies. The gas supplied to the test apparatus
involves needle valves on individual and mixed gas supply shall consist of pressurized sources of oxygen or nitrogen, or
lines, a paramagnetic oxygen analyzer that continuously both, not less than 98 % pure or clean dry air, or both,
samples the mixed gas, and a flowmeter to indicate when the (containing 20.9 % oxygen), as appropriate.
gas flow through the chimney is within the required limits. 6.7.1 The gas mixture entering the chimney shall have a
6.3.2 An alternative system of measurement and control moisture content of <0.1 %, unless the results have been shown
does not use direct oxygen concentration measurements, but to be insensitive to higher moisture levels in the gas mixture.
has proved satisfactory. It includes the following: calibrated The gas supply system shall incorporate a drying device, or

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1. Burning Specimen 6. Glass Beads in a Bed 11. Pressure Gauge
2. Clamp with Rod Support 7. Brass Base 12. Precision Pressure Regulator
3. Igniter 8. Tee 13. Filter
4. Wire Screen 9. Cut-Off Valve 14. Needle Valve
5. Ring Stand 10. Orifice in Holder 15. Rotameter
FIG. 1 Typical Equipment Layout

provision for monitoring or sampling the gas supply for 7.1.2 Ensure that the surfaces of the specimens are clean and
moisture content, unless the moisture content of the gas free from flaws that could affect burning behavior, for example,
supplies is known to be acceptable. peripheral molding flash or burrs from machining. The edges
NOTE 5—It must be noted that bottled oxygen or nitrogen will not of the specimens shall be smooth and free from fuzz or burrs
always contain <0.1 % of water; moisture contents of 0.003 to 0.01 % are of material left from machining or molding.
typical for commercial supplies as filled bottles >98 % pure, but as such 7.1.3 Record the position and orientation of the test speci-
bottled gases are depressured to below about 1 MPa, the moisture content
mens with respect to any asymmetry in the sample material
of the gas drawn off has been found to rise above 0.1 %.
(see Note 6).
7. Test Specimens
NOTE 6—Oxygen index results are likely to be significantly affected by
7.1 General. differences in burning behavior, due to material inhomogeneity (for
7.1.1 The specimens shall be die-punched, cut by hand example, different levels of shrinkage when heated for specimens cut in
using a razor blade or other sharp tool, or cut by an automatic different directions from asymmetrically-oriented thermoplastics film).
machine. Alternatively, specimens shall be prepared directly by
injection molding.

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 D2863 – 12

FIG. 2 Frame Design

7.1.5 It is likely that, for materials where the oxygen index

is known to within 62 % by volume, 15 test specimens will be
sufficient. However, for materials of unknown oxygen index, or
which exhibit erratic burning characteristics, between 15 and
30 test specimens are likely to be required.
7.2 Self-Supporting Specimens (Specimen Types I, II, III,
and IV)
7.2.1 The specimens shall be prepared in accordance with
7.1.
7.3 Specimens of Flexible Sheet or Film Materials that
Require Support (Specimen Type IV)
7.3.1 The specimens shall be prepared in accordance with
7.1 and they shall be supported by both vertical edges in a
frame equivalent to that illustrated by Fig. 2 (see 6.2.2).
7.4 Self-Supporting Specimens Rolled from Thin Films
(Specimen Type VI)
7.4.1 For preparation of Type VI specimens, use the rolling
tool described in 6.2.3.
7.4.2 Specimen films shall be prepared in accordance with
7.1.
FIG. 3 Rod with a Slit
7.4.3 Insert one corner of the film into the slit of the thin
film rolling tool and then wind the film around the rod in a
7.1.4 The test specimens shall conform to the dimensions spiral of 45°, as shown in Fig. 3. Ensure that the 45° angle is
and geometry listed in Table 3. If non-standard size specimens maintained during the winding process so that the film reaches
are used, a difference in oxygen index is likely to result. exactly to the end of the tool, to produce a test piece of the
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 D2863 – 12
correct length. After the winding is finished, tape the last end 9. Calibration of Apparatus
of the roll while the material is still on the stainless steel rod to 9.1 Calibrate the system for direct oxygen gas concentration
prevent loosening. Then pull the rod out of the rolled film. measurement with a paramagnetic oxygen analyzer, used for
7.4.4 Cut off the rolled film at a distance of 20 mm from the the measurements in 6.3.1, by the following: (a) turning the
top end. See Fig. 4. nitrogen flow on and closing the oxygen flow and confirming
7.5 Specimen Marking that the oxygen concentration on the display reads 0.0 %, and
7.5.1 For monitoring the distance over which burning oc- (b) turning the oxygen flow on and closing the nitrogen flow
curs, mark the specimen with transverse lines at one or more and confirming that the oxygen concentration on the display
levels which are dependent upon the specimen form and the reads the same value as the concentration of oxygen in the
ignition procedure to be used. Structurally self-supporting supply gas (see 6.7).
specimens are preferably marked on at least two adjacent faces. 9.2 Calibrate the flow-measuring system used for the indi-
If wet inks are used, ensure that the marks are dry before the rect measurements of oxygen concentration and flow rate with
specimen is ignited. the instrumentation in 6.3.2 using a water-sealed rotating drum
7.5.2 If test specimens of Type I, II, III, IV, or VI are to be meter (wet test meter) in accordance with Test Method D1071
tested in accordance with Procedure A, they shall be marked 50 or by equivalent calibration devices. The maximum interval
mm from the end to be ignited. If specimens of Type I, II, III, between recalibration shall be six months.
IV, and VI are to be tested in accordance with Procedure C, 9.3 A cast PMMA specimen shall be used as a verification
they shall be marked at 10 mm and at 60 mm from the end to material at least once a month. See Annex A1 for calibration
be ignited. method.
7.5.3 The reference marks for testing specimens of Type V 10. Hazards
are carried by the supporting frame (see Fig. 2), but it is
10.1 The exhaust system must be so designed and operated
acceptable to mark thermally stable materials at 20 mm and at
that the laboratory environment is protected from smoke and
100 mm from the end to be ignited, for convenience.
gases or vapors. The operator shall be instructed on ways to
7.6 For cellular materials, the density shall be determined in
minimize exposure to combustion products by following sound
accordance with Test Method D1622.
safety and industrial hygiene practices. For example, ensure
NOTE 7—It is possible that the oxygen index samples of cellular that the exhaust system is working properly and wear appro-
materials that contain volatile flammable blowing agents that diffuse from priate clothing including gloves, safety glasses, breathing
the sample will change with time. apparatus (when hazardous fumes are expected).
10.2 During this test, high temperatures are generated that
8. Conditioning are capable of igniting some clothing following even brief
8.1 Unless otherwise specified, each test specimen shall be exposures. Precautions shall be taken to avoid ignitions of this
conditioned for at least 40 h at 23 6 2°C and 50 6 5 % relative type.
humidity (RH) immediately prior to use in accordance with
11. Test Procedure
Practice D618.
8.2 Maintain the ambient conditions for the test apparatus at NOTE 8—Some materials exhibit a non-flaming type of combustion (for
23 6 5°C. Keep the test specimens in an enclosure at 23 6 2°C example, glowing combustion) instead of, or at a lower oxygen concen-
tration than that required for, flaming combustion. When testing such
and 50 6 5 % RH and take the test specimens out of the
materials, it is necessary to identify the type of combustion for which the
enclosure just before testing (so that testing is conducted within oxygen index is required or measured.
30 minutes of the test specimen removal from the conditioning
11.1 Procedure A
environment).
11.1.1 Select an initial concentration of oxygen to be used.
Whenever possible, base the initial concentration on experi-
ence of results for similar materials. Alternatively, try to ignite
a test specimen in air, and note the burning behavior. If the
specimen burns rapidly, select an initial concentration of about
18 % oxygen; if the test specimen burns gently or unsteadily,
select an initial oxygen concentration of about 21 %; if the
specimen does not continue to burn in air, select an initial
concentration of at least 25 %, depending upon the difficulty of
ignition or the period of burning before extinguishing in air.
11.1.2 Record the oxygen concentration used as the volume
percent measured by an oxygen paramagnetic analyzer (if
present) or as the volume percent calculated in accordance with
the equations given in Annex A2 (if the system described in
6.3.2 is used).
11.1.3 Ensure that the test chimney is vertical (see Fig. 1).
Verify that the temperature at the lower end of the chimney is
FIG. 4 Rolled Film at least 23 6 2°C.
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 D2863 – 12
11.1.4 Mount a specimen vertically in the center of the 11.1.8.5 Extinguish the specimen, if necessary, by allowing
chimney so that the top of the specimen is at least 100 mm only nitrogen to flow through the chimney.
below the open top of the chimney and the lowest exposed part 11.1.8.6 Remove the specimen and clean, as necessary, any
of the specimen is at least 100 mm above the top of the gas surfaces within the chimney or on the igniter that have become
distribution device at the base of the chimney (see Fig. 1 or Fig. contaminated, for example with soot.
2, as appropriate, for guidance). 11.1.8.7 Allow the chimney to regain a temperature of 23 6
11.1.5 Set the gas mixing and flow controls so that an 2°C, or replace it with another so conditioned.
oxygen/nitrogen mixture at 23 6 2°C, containing the desired 11.1.8.8 Install the next specimen.
concentration of oxygen, is flowing through the chimney at a NOTE 10—For screening purposes, it is acceptable to invert sufficiently
rate 40 6 2 mm/s. Let the gas flow purge the chimney for at long specimens or trim them to remove the burnt end, and re-use them.
least 30 s prior to ignition of each specimen, and maintain the Results from such specimens will save material when establishing an
flow without change during ignition and combustion of each approximate value for the minimum oxygen concentration required for
specimen. combustion, but cannot be included among those used for estimation of
11.1.6 For specimen Types I, II, III, IV, and VI, use top the oxygen index, unless the specimen is reconditioned at the temperature
and humidity appropriate for the material involved.
surface ignition, as described in 11.1.7.
11.1.9 Selecting Successive Oxygen Concentrations:
NOTE 9—For tests on materials that exhibit steady burning and spread
of combustion in oxygen concentrations at, or close to, their oxygen index
11.1.9.1 Select the oxygen concentration to be used for
value, or for structurally self-supporting specimens of #3 mm thickness, testing the next test specimen as follows:
Procedure B (with specimens marked in accordance with 7.5.2) will often (1) Decrease the oxygen concentration if the burning
give more consistent results than Procedure A. In such cases, use behavior of the preceding specimen gave an “X” response.
Procedure B for specimens of Type I, II, III, IV, or VI. (2) Increase the oxygen concentration if the preceding
11.1.7 Top Surface Ignition: specimen gave an “O” response.
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11.1.7.1 For top surface ignition, the igniter is used to (3) Choose the size of the change in oxygen concentration
initiate burning only on the top surface of the upper end of the in accordance with 11.1.10 and 11.1.11, as appropriate. The
specimen. procedure described in 11.1.10 and 11.1.11 is based upon the
“up-and-down method for small samples,” using the specific
11.1.7.2 Apply the lowest visible part of the flame to the top
case where NT – NL = 5 (see 11.1.11.2 and 11.1.11.4), with an
of the specimen using a sweeping motion, if necessary, to cover
arbitrary step size for certain changes to be made in the oxygen
the whole surface, but taking care not to maintain the flame
concentration used.
against the vertical faces or edges of the specimen. Continue to
11.1.10 Determining the Preliminary Oxygen Concentra-
apply the flame for up to 30 s, removing it every 5 s, just
tion:
briefly, to observe whether or not the entire top surface of the
specimen is burning on its own. 11.1.10.1 Repeat the procedures specified in 11.1.1 to 11.1.8
inclusive, using oxygen concentration changes of any conve-
11.1.7.3 Consider the specimen to be ignited once the
nient step size, until two oxygen concentrations, in percent
specimen is burning on its own.
volume, have been found that differ by #1.0 % and of which
11.1.7.4 Remove the igniter once the specimen is ignited. one gave an “O” response and the other an “X” response. From
11.1.7.5 Commence measurement of the period and distance this pair of oxygen concentrations, note that which gave the
of burning once the specimen is ignited. “O” response as the preliminary oxygen concentration level
11.1.8 Assessing the Burning Behavior of Individual Test and then proceed in accordance with 11.1.11.
Specimens:
NOTE 11—The two results, at oxygen concentrations #1.0 % apart,
11.1.8.1 Commence measurement of the period of burning which give opposite responses, do not have to be from successive
as soon as the specimen has been ignited in accordance with specimens.
11.1.7.3, 11.2.3.3 (1), or 11.2.3.4 (1), as applicable, and NOTE 12—At times, the concentration that gave the “O” response will
observe its burning behavior. If burning ceases, but spontane- not be lower than that which gave the “X” response. Such apparent
ous re-ignition occurs within 1 s, continue the observation and inconsistencies, that are likely to be caused by the variability of the test,
measurements. A typical test results sheet is shown in Appen- the equipment, or the material, are not uncommon.
dix X1. 11.1.11 Oxygen Concentration Changes:
11.1.8.2 If neither the period or extent of burning exceeds 11.1.11.1 Using, again, the preliminary oxygen concentra-
the relevant limit specified in Table 2 for the applicable tion from 11.1.10, test one specimen by repeating 11.1.1 to
specimen, note the duration and extent of burning. This is 11.1.9, inclusive. Record both the oxygen concentration (Co)
recorded as an “O” response. (See Appendix X1.) used and the response, “X” or “O”, as the first of the NL and
11.1.8.3 Alternatively, if either the period or the extent of of the NT series of results.
burning exceed the relevant limits specified in Table 2, note the 11.1.11.2 Change the oxygen concentration, in accordance
burning behavior accordingly, and extinguish the flame. This is with 11.1.9 using concentration changes (d) of 0.2 % (see Note
recorded as an “X” response. (See Appendix X1.) 13) of the total gas mixture to test further specimens in
11.1.8.4 Note also the burning characteristics of the mate- accordance with 11.1.1 to 11.1.10 inclusive, noting the values
rial, for example, dripping, charring, erratic burning, glowing of Co and corresponding responses, until a different response to
combustion, or after-glow. that obtained in 11.1.11.1 is recorded.

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11.1.11.3 The result from 11.1.11.1 plus those of like (1) Consider the specimen to be ignited when the visibly
response from 11.1.11.2 constitute the NL series of results. (See burning portion first reaches the upper reference mark on the
example in Appendix X1, Part 2). specimen.
NOTE 13—Where experience has shown that the requirements of
11.2.3.5 Remove the igniter once the specimen is ignited.
11.1.11.6 are usually satisfied by a value of d other than 0.2 %, it is 11.2.3.6 Commence measurement of the period and distance
appropriate to select that value as the initial value of d. of burning once the specimen is ignited.
11.1.11.4 Test four more specimens, in accordance with NOTE 14—The burning portion includes any burning drips that run
11.1.1 to 11.1.10 inclusive, maintaining d = 0.2 %, and note the down the surface of the specimen.
Co used for, and response of, each specimen. Designate the 11.2.4 Follow the instructions in 11.1.8 through 11.1.11.
oxygen concentration used for the last specimen as CF.
11.3 Procedure C—Comparison with a Specified Minimum
11.1.11.5 These four results together with the last result Value for Oxygen Index (Short Procedure)
from 11.1.11.2 (that is, that which differed in response from
11.3.1 If the actual oxygen index of a material is needed or
that of 11.1.11.1) constitute the remainder of the NT series, so
in case of a dispute, Procedures A or B shall be used, as
that:
appropriate.
NT 5 N L 1 5
11.3.2 For Procedure C, set up the apparatus and test
See example in Appendix X1, Part 2. specimen in accordance with 11.1.1 through 11.1.6, except that
11.1.11.6 Calculate the oxygen index in accordance with the specified minimum concentration of oxygen shall be
12.1. Calculate the estimated standard deviation, s*, of the selected for the purposes of 11.1.1.
oxygen concentration measurements from the last six re- 11.3.3 Ignite the test specimen in accordance with 11.1.7 or
sponses in the NT series (including CF), in accordance with with 11.2.3, as appropriate.
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12.3. If the following condition is satisfied: 11.3.4 Using up to three specimens, assess the burning
2s* behavior of each specimen in accordance with 11.1.8.
3 , d, 1.5s* 11.3.5 If for at least two out of the three specimens thus
report the oxygen in accordance with Section 13, otherwise tested the flame is extinguished before the relevant criteria
follow the instructions in 11.1.11.6 (1) or (2). from Table 2 are exceeded, that is, an “O” response is recorded,
then record that the oxygen index of the material is not less
(1) If d < 2s*/3, repeat 11.1.11.2 through 11.1.11.6 using than the specified value. Otherwise, record that the oxygen
increased values for d, until the condition is satisfied, or index of the material is less than the specified value or
(2) If d > 1.5s*, repeat 11.1.11.2 through 11.1.11.6 using determine the oxygen index in accordance with 11.1 or 11.2, as
decreased values for d, until the condition is satisfied, except appropriate.
that d shall not be reduced below 0.2 % unless so required by
the relevant material specification. 12. Calculation
11.2 Procedure B
12.1 Oxygen Index:
11.2.1 Follow the instructions in 11.1.1 through 11.1.6.
12.1.1 Calculate the oxygen index (OI), expressed as a
11.2.2 When using propagating ignition, follow the proce- percentage by volume, from the following relationship:
dure described in 11.2.3.
OI 5 CF 1 kd
11.2.3 Propagating Ignition:
11.2.3.1 For propagating ignition, the igniter is used to where:
produce burning across the top and partially down the vertical CF = the final value of oxygen concentration, in percent
faces of the specimen. volume to one decimal place, used in the series of NT
11.2.3.2 Apply the lowest visible part of the flame to the end measurements performed in accordance with 11.1.11
face of the specimen and to its vertical faces to a depth of and noted in accordance with 11.1.11.4,
approximately 6 mm. d = the interval, in percent volume to at least one decimal
11.2.3.3 For specimen Type V, continue to apply the flame place, between oxygen concentration levels used and
for up to 30 s, removing it every 5 s, just briefly, to observe controlled in accordance with 11.1.11, and
whether or not the vertical surface of the specimen are burning k = a factor to be obtained from Table 3 as described in
steadily or whether the visibly burning portion has reached the 12.2.
upper reference mark on the support frame. 12.1.2 For the purpose of calculation of s*, as required by
(1) Consider the specimen to be ignited when the visibly 11.1.11.6 and 12.3, the OI shall be calculated to two decimal
burning portion first reaches the upper reference mark on the places.
support frame. 12.1.3 For the purpose of reporting OI results, express OI
11.2.3.4 For specimen Types I, II, III, IV, or VI, continue to values to the nearest 60.1 %, with exact intermediate results
apply the flame for up to 30 s, removing it every 5 s, just being rounded downwards.
briefly, to observe whether or not the vertical surface of the 12.2 Determination of k:
specimen are burning steadily or whether the visibly burning 12.2.1 Table 3 contains values of k for calculating oxygen
portion has reached the upper reference mark on the specimen. index concentration from determinations made by Dixon’s

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“Up-and-Down” method. The value and sign of k are depen- 13.1.3 A statement that test results relate only to the
dent upon the pattern of the responses of specimens tested in behavior of the test specimens under the conditions of this test
accordance with 11.1.11. Determine them from Table 3 as method and that these results must not be used to infer the fire
follows: hazards of the material in other forms or under other fire
12.2.1.1 If the response of the specimen tested according to conditions;
11.1.11.1 was “O”, so that the first contrary response (see 13.1.4 Identification of the material tested, including, where
relevant, the type of material, density, previous history, the
11.1.11.2) was an “X”, refer to Column 1 of Table 3 to select
specimen orientation with respect to any anisotropy in the
the row for which the last four response symbols correspond to
material or sample, and the date of manufacture with lot
those found when testing in accordance with 11.1.11.4. The number;
value and sign of k will be that shown in Column 2, 3, 4, or 5 13.1.5 The oxygen index (OI) as determined in 12.1;
for which the number of “O”s shown in row (a) of the table 13.1.6 The test specimen type or dimensions;
corresponds to the number of “O” responses found for the NL 13.1.7 The gas measurement and control device accuracy
series, in accordance with 11.1.11.1 and 11.1.11.2, or (in accordance with 6.3.1 or with 6.3.2);
12.2.1.2 If the responses of the specimen tested according to 13.1.8 The test procedure used (Procedure A, in accordance
11.1.11.1 was “X”, so that the first contrary response was an with 11.1; Procedure B, in accordance with 11.2; or Procedure
“O”, refer to the sixth column of Table 3 to select the row for C, in accordance with 11.3);
which the last four response symbols correspond to those found 13.1.9 When Procedure C, in accordance with 11.3 is used,
when testing in accordance with 11.1.11.4. The value of k will indicate the relevant specified minimum oxygen index (OI) of
the material and report if the material tested had a lower or
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be that shown in Column 2, 3, 4, or 5 for which the number of

“X”s shown in row (b) of the table corresponds to the number higher oxygen index (OI);
of “X” responses found for the NL series, in accordance with 13.1.10 If applicable, the estimated standard deviation and
the oxygen concentration increment used, if other than 0.2 %;
11.1.11.1 and 11.1.11.2 but the sign of k must be reversed, so
13.1.11 A description of any relevant characteristics or
that negative values shown in Table 3 for k become positive,
behavior, such as charring, dripping, severe shrinkage, erratic
and vice versa.
burning, after-glow; and
NOTE 15—An example of the determination of the calculation of an OI 13.1.12 Any variations from the requirements of this test
is given in Annex A2. method.
12.3 Standard Deviation of Oxygen Concentration Mea- 14. Precision and Bias 4
surements: 14.1 Table 4 is based on a round robin conducted in 1999 in
12.3.1 For the purposes of 11.1.11.6 calculate the estimated accordance with Practice E691, involving eight materials
standard deviation, s*, of oxygen concentration measurements tested by twelve laboratories. For each material, the samples
from the relationship: were prepared by the supplier of the material and conditioned
at the laboratories that tested them. Each laboratory obtained
(~Ci 2 OI!2 1
s* 5 [ ]2 two test results for each material. All laboratories utilized gas
n21
measurement and control devices in accordance with 6.3 (Type
where: A) for accuracy and precision.
Ci = in turn, each of the percent oxygen concentrations 14.2 Table 4 does not include three laboratories that partici-
used during measurement of the last six responses in pated in the round robin and utilized measurement and control
the NT series of measurements; devices in accordance with 6.3 (Type B) for accuracy and
OI = the oxygen index value, calculated in accordance with precision. The results from these laboratories could not be
12.1; and incorporated into this precision statement, due to the limited
n = the number of measurements of oxygen concentration number of participants to comply with Practice E691 guide-
contributing to ((Ci − OI)2. lines. Therefore, the resulting precision is provided in Annex
A3.
NOTE 16—For this test method, n = 6, in accordance with 11.1.11.6. For
n < 6, the test method loses precision. For n > 6, alternative statistical NOTE 17—Two statistically designed interlaboratory round robins for
criteria would apply. precision evaluation were conducted earlier, one with 18 laboratories and
five materials (supporting data are available from ASTM Headquarters,
13. Report request RR:D20-0102) and one with 29 laboratories and twelve materi-
als.4 The first study indicated a higher standard deviation for specimens
13.1 Report the following information:
13.1.1 A reference to this test method; 4
Supporting data are available from ASTM Headquarters. Request RR:D20-
13.1.2 Date of testing; 1218.

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TABLE 4 Oxygen Index (OI), % results for the same material, obtained by the same operator
Material
Specimen
Procedure Average SrA
SRB
r C
R D using the same equipment in the same laboratory.
Type 14.3.2 Reproducibility—Two test results obtained by differ-
PMMA-1 III A 17.7 0.10 0.23 0.28 0.65 ent laboratories shall be judged not equivalent if they differ by
PMMA-2 III A 17.8 0.13 0.25 0.37 0.70
PVC, plasticized I A 38.4 0.60 2.03 1.67 5.68
more than the “R” value for that material. The concept of “R”
ABS, FR I A 26.8 0.58 1.09 1.61 3.07 is the interval representing the critical difference between two
PF, thermoset I A 49.7 0.36 1.74 1.01 4.87 test results for the same material, obtained by different opera-
PS, foam II A 20.9 0.44 0.97 1.22 2.71
PC, sheet V B 26.1 0.31 1.42 0.88 3.97
tors using different equipment in different laboratories.
PET, film VI A 21.9 0.64 1.48 1.79 4.15 14.3.3 Any judgement in accordance with 14.3.1 or 14.3.2
A
Sr is the within-laboratory (or repeatability) standard deviation for the indicated would have an approximate 95 % (0.95) probability of being
material. It is obtained by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the correct. (Warning—The explanation of the concepts of repeat-
test results from all of the participating laboratories. It is calculated as the square
root of the ratio of (a) the sum of the squares of the individual standard deviations
ability, “r”, and reproducibility, “R”, in 14.3 is only intended to
and (b) the number of laboratories. present a meaningful way of considering the approximate
B
SR is the between-laboratories (or reproducibility) standard deviation, calcu- precision of this test method. It is inappropriate to apply the
lated as the larger of either (a) the repeatability standard deviation or (b) the
standard deviation of laboratory means.
test results and precision in Table 4 to acceptance or rejection
C
r is the within-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.83 Sr. of materials, as these data apply only to the materials tested in
D
R is the between-laboratories critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 the round robin and are unlikely to be rigorously representative
SR.
of other lots, formulations, conditions, materials, or laborato-
ries. The principles outlined in Practice E691 need to be
with higher oxygen index, while the second study indicated a dependence applied by users of this test method to generate data specific to
of precision with the type of specimen used. their materials and laboratory (or between specific laborato-
14.3 Concept of repeatability, “r” and Reproducibility, ries). The principles of repeatability and reproducibility would
“R”, in Table 4—If Sr and SR have been calculated from a then be valid for such data.)
large enough body of data, and for test results that were 14.4 Bias—There are no recognized standards on which to
averages from testing two specimens for each test result, then: base an estimate of bias for this test method.
14.3.1 Repeatability—Two test results obtained within one
laboratory shall be judged not equivalent if they differ by more 15. Keywords
than the “r” value for that material. The concept of “r” is the 15.1 candle-like combustion; minimum oxygen concentra-
interval representing the critical difference between two test tion; oxygen; oxygen concentration; oxygen index

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. CALIBRATION OF EQUIPMENT

A1.1 Leak Tests—Leak tests shall be carried out thoroughly A1.3 Oxygen Concentration:
on all joints where leaks could change the oxygen concentra- A1.3.1 The concentration of oxygen in the mixture of gases
tion levels in the chimney from the concentration levels set or flowing into the chimney shall be checked to an accuracy of
indicated. 0.1 % of mixture, either by sampling the chimney atmosphere
for analysis or by using an independently calibrated analyzer in
A1.2 Gas-Flow Rates: situ. If an oxygen analyzer is incorporated in the equipment,
A1.2.1 The system for indicating the gas-flow rate through this shall be calibrated using the following gases, each of
the chimney, to satisfy 6.3 and 11.1.5 shall be checked using a which shall conform with 6.3.2 for purity and moisture content:
calibrated flow meter, or an equivalent device, with an accu- A1.3.1.1 Any two gases selected from the following: nitro-
racy equivalent to 60.2 mm/s flow rate through the chimney. gen; oxygen; or clean air; and
A1.2.2 The flow rate shall be estimated by dividing the total A1.3.1.2 A mixture of any two of the preceding gases
gas-flow rate through the chimney by the cross sectional area having an oxygen concentration within the range of concen-
of the bore of the chimney, for example, by using the following trations to be used for most test specimens.
equation:
qv A1.4 Verification of Complete Equipment—For monthly
F 5 1.27 3 106 2
D verification, in accordance with 11.1, use Type III specimens of
the PMMA. The PMMA shall be a non-modified transparent
where: cast sheet based on a homopolymer of methylmethacrylate in
F = flow rate through the chimney, mm/s, accordance with Specifications D4802, Category A-1
qv = total gas-flow at 23 6 2°C through the chimney, L/s, (ISO 7823-1 for Cast Sheets). The PMMA shall have an
D = diameter of the bore of the chimney, mm.
oxygen index (OI) between 17.0 and 18.5.
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NOTE A1.1—Other PMMA sheets such as cast sheets based on copo-
lymer of methylmethacrylate, extruded or melt calendered PMMA sheets
may give a different burning behavior depending on the comonomer used,
its contents or molecular weight which effects melt behavior when being
burned.

A2. CALCULATION OF OXYGEN CONCENTRATION

A2.1 Oxygen concentrations required for the purposes of 98.5 % purity or with nitrogen containing 0.5 % of oxygen, calculate the
Section 11 shall be calculated in accordance with the equation: oxygen concentration, in percent by volume, using the relationship:
100 Vo 98.5 V8o 1 20.9 V8A 1 0.5 V8N
Co 5 V 1 V (A2.1) Co 5 V8o 1 V8A 1 V8N (A2.2)
o N

where: where:
Co = oxygen concentration, in percent by volume, V8o = volume of oxygen stream used, per volume of
Vo = volume of oxygen per volume of mixture, at 23°C, mixture,
and V8A = volume of air stream used, per volume of mixture,
VN = volume of nitrogen per volume of mixture, at 23°C. and
V8N = volume of nitrogen stream used, per volume of
mixture; assuming that the streams are at the same
NOTE A2.1—If an oxygen analyzer is used, determine the oxygen
concentration using the readout from the particular instrument used. pressure at 23°C.
NOTE A2.2—If the result is calculated from flow or pressure data for For mixtures based on two gas streams, V8o, V8A , or V8N
individual gas streams contributing to the mixture, it is necessary to allow becomes zero, as appropriate.
for the proportion of oxygen present in streams other than a pure oxygen
supply. For example, for mixtures made using air mixed with oxygen of

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A3. PRECISION AND BIAS ASSESSMENT USING GAS CONTROL DEVICES WITHOUT DIRECT OXYGEN
CONCENTRATION MEASUREMENT

A3.1 Table A3.1 is based on a limited round robin4 measurement. For each material, the samples were prepared by
conducted in 1999, along with the round robin in Section 14. the supplier of the material and conditioned at the laboratories
This limited round robin does not comply with Practice E691 that tested them. Each laboratory obtained either one or two
because only three laboratories participated on a limited test results for each material. All laboratories utilized gas
number of materials using the 6.3.2 control devices for measurement and control devices in accordance with 6.3.2 for
accuracy and precision, without direct oxygen concentration accuracy and precision.

TABLE A3.1 Oxygen Index (OI), %A A3.2 See 14.3 for explanations of the concepts of repeat-
Specimen
ability and reproducibility. (Warning—The explanations of
Material Procedure Average SrB SRC rD RE the concepts of repeatability, “r”, and reproducibility, “R”, is
Type
PMMA-1 III A 17.1 0.20 0.43 0.57 1.21 only intended to present a meaningful way of considering the
PMMA-2 III A 17.4 0.00 0.61 0.00 1.72 approximate precision of this test method. Do not apply the test
PVC, plasticized I A 48.0 0.27 7.84 0.77 22.0 results and precision in Table A3.1 to acceptance or rejection of
ABS, FR I A 26.5 0.27 11.1 0.95 31.1
PF, thermoset I A 52.2 0.15 0.82 0.42 2.30 materials, as these data apply only to the materials tested in the
PS, foam II A 23.3 0.00 3.04 0.00 8.50 round robin and are unlikely to be rigorously representative of
A
Based on data from only two laboratories. other lots, formulations, conditions, materials, or laboratories.
B
Sr is the within-laboratory (or repeatability) standard deviation for the indicated The principles outlined in Practice E691 need to be applied by
material. It is obtained by pooling the within-laboratory standard deviations of the
test results from all of the participating laboratories. It is calculated as the square
users of this test method to generate data specific to their
root of the ratio of (a) the sum of the squares of the individual standard deviations materials and laboratory (or between specific laboratories). The
and (b) the number of laboratories. principles of repeatability and reproducibility would then be
C
SR is the between-laboratories (or reproducibility) standard deviation, calcu-
lated as the larger of either (a) the repeatability standard deviation or (b) the
valid for such data.)
standard deviation of laboratory means. A3.2.1 Any judgement in accordance with repeatability and
D
r is the within-laboratory critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 Sr.
E
R is the between-laboratories critical interval between two test results = 2.8 3 reproducibility would have an approximate 95 % (0.95) prob-
SR. ability of being correct.

APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. TYPICAL TEST RESULTS SHEET

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SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D20 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D2863 - 10)
that may impact the use of this standard. (April 1, 2012)

(1) Removed “igniter flame” from Figure 1.

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